Accident Sequence
Following takeoff, the landing gear hesitated briefly at approximately midpoint before completing retraction. Subsequent attempts to extend the gear through both normal and emergency procedures were unsuccessful. The aircraft landed at Dulles International Airport with the landing gear in an intermediate position.
The pilot decided to land on the grass to the left of Runway 30. Immediately after ground contact, the aircraft struck a two-foot-high embankment.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the landing gear motor circuit breaker had tripped. A retraction test indicated that the main landing gear functioned properly, but extensive damage prevented testing of the nose gear.
Prior Incident
While the aircraft was tied down, another taxiing aircraft struck its spinner area, necessitating maintenance attention. That maintenance immediately preceded the accident flight.